Minnesota lawmaker Nolan West has introduced “Harvey’s Law,” a bill requiring cameras in infant and toddler rooms at state-funded day care centers, with footage retained for 28 days. The legislation is a response to the tragic death of 11-month-old Harvey Muklebust at a Savage day care last September. Harvey’s parents, Hunter and Catherine Muklebust, spoke emotionally at the State Capitol, emphasizing the need for accountability and transparency to prevent future child abuse or deaths in day care settings.

The bill follows the arrest of Theah Russell, an 18-year-old former employee at Rocking Horse Ranch day care, who is charged with second-degree murder in Harvey’s death and attempted murder in two other incidents involving another child. Russell allegedly admitted to choking Harvey after he cried in his crib and had a history of erratic, attention-seeking behavior, including harming other children. Authorities and lawmakers argue that without video evidence, perpetrators may avoid felony convictions and continue working with children, underscoring the urgency of passing Harvey’s Law.